Lodi, California: A Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you’re a wine lover looking for a hidden gem with picturesque outdoor recreation opportunities, look no further than Lodi, California. Nestled among stunning natural beauty and producing some of America’s favorite grapes, Lodi offers a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking temperate weather and fewer crowds.
Start your trip by checking into Wine & Roses, a locally-owned resort hotel known for its jungle-like surroundings and scenic landscapes. Fling open your double doors to the sounds of a waterfall and birdcalls, settle into your surroundings, and have everything you need at your fingertips. On the resort’s grounds, you’ll find the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center, where you can sample regional wines without ever leaving your resort.
Just steps outside your room, grab coffee and fresh pastries, and sandwiches at Towne Corner Café & Market. The resort’s Towne House Restaurant is open for weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner, offering fine dining and hand-crafted cocktails. The resort also holds special events throughout the year, including Easter Brunch, which kicks off spring in style.
Wine & Roses’ central location makes it easy to explore everything Lodi has to offer. Choose from kayaking, cycling, or a short drive to your favorite outdoor recreation destination. Dip your toes and paddles into picturesque Lodi Lake, where you can kayak or paddleboard your way through beautiful lagoons. Headwaters Kayak has everything you need, including classes, to explore the waterbird life, tall grasses, turtles sunning on rocks, and beautiful resident homes that pop up in various portions of the lake and its lagoons.
When you’re ready to explore Lodi’s renowned vineyards, rent a bike from local shops like Lodi Cyclery. Set your course and challenge yourself or take a leisurely bike ride and soak up the beautiful scenery. Oak Farm Vineyards is a must-visit destination, featuring a restored white colonial home built in 1876, surrounded by ancient oak trees with breathtaking views of the vineyards.
A little peace and tranquility await you at the completely unexpected Micke Grove Japanese Garden. This secret hideaway features a red arched bridge, babbling brook, waterfalls splashing into a koi fish pond, and stepping stones around stone lanterns that rise up out of the landscape. The stunning maple trees bursting through the sea of lush green landscapes are a must-see.
To sample a variety of grapes, belly up to the tasting bar at the eclectic Michael David Winery, where you can sip their popular Inkblot Petit Syrah under a covered pond-side cabana. You can also grab lunch at their on-site farmstand Cafe & Bakery, where locals flock for homemade pies and meat sourced from the local 4H program. If white wine is more your speed, Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards have won Best of Class awards for their small-batch productions, including Grenache Blanc and Clairette Blanche.
Bokisch Vineyards, known for its hilltop views of the vines and sunset, is a true pleasure. Take a seat in a red Adirondack chair and gaze out at the hearty vines spread before you.
In summary, Lodi marries wine with the great outdoors, offering a diverse array of experiences for every traveler. As a hidden gem, Lodi’s charm and beauty should not be overlooked. So, plan your visit to Lodi today and explore this picturesque destination.
